Win an iPad in a Heated Discussion (and Save Cool Cash)

DALLAS, Sept. 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Most of us like to avoid heated discussions, but there's one that millions of homeowners must have this winter to save cool cash and keep from getting burned by making the wrong decision. Since heating and A/C systems can account for more than 50 percent of a home's energy use, it's good common "cents" to make sure your home's furnace is operating at peak efficiency.

Service Experts will be hosting an online forum, "Take Five: The Top Five Things You Must Know About Buying a New Furnace," this Saturday, September 24, at 2 p.m. (CDT). And one registrant will win a brand-new iPad – perfect for shopping eBay and Amazon with all the cash from your electricity savings. Just log on to http://www.ServiceExperts.com/webinars to register for this free and information packed event.

Some of the insights shared will include:

furnaces older than 15 years can be very inefficient, wasting up to 40 percent of the dollars you spend; current technology has created furnaces that run at 98 percent efficiency

but bigger isn't always better; even the number of windows in your home and the direction they face will determine the best system for your home

there are many government, utility and manufacturers' rebates available, and in some instances they can be combined for maximum savings

while it seems obvious to buy during the off-peak demand season, many homeowners wait until the equipment breaks before replacing it; 38% of all new furnace installations are due to a breakdown-related cause, so you may pay more than necessary

finding a qualified contractor is critical, since improper installation can reduce system efficiency by up to 30 percent — costing more on utility bills and possibly shortening the equipment's life."

"Nearly three million U.S. and Canadian homeowners will have to purchase a new furnace during the next 12 months, and it's an important decision for both your comfort and your wallet," said Dave Moody, Director, Field Marketing with Service Experts. "Now is the time to make sure your home is ready for the cold weather ahead."